by The Rev. Pam Fahrner

The Epiphany

Epiphany is a word of such common usage in our secular society many people use it without even knowing it has a religious connection! It usually is used in the context of “I had an epiphany or epiphanal moment” indicating a sudden change, a new perspective. This new view comes suddenly, at the end of an arduous struggle to get at the truth. There are three elements which must be present for an epiphany to take place. 1) The recipient must have open eyes and ears. If we go around deaf and blind to God given clues, we will never see the grace given to us and we will remain on our familiar if stagnant paths. 2) We must also have an open mind and heart so we can interpret the signs around us. We must inwardly digest, ponder the messages given to us. We need to take time and effort to change directions-to figure out what God may be trying to tell us. 3) Lastly we need the courage to do what we know to be right. Change is nearly always frightening and we tend to stick with our known patterns. Epiphany is not complete without a turning, a new focus, new perspective and action to reflect our new insight.

Who knows what epiphanies may take place in this new year of grace?

When the wise men (magi from different texts) saw the star, they followed it, believing that a king had been born. When they saw Mary and the baby, their eyes, ears, hearts and minds were open to the miracle. They sensed the sacred space and recognized that baby as the Savior. But this baby born in such humble circumstances was not the royal child they expected. Their minds had to be open to the unexpected. They knelt and worshipped him. The wise men then dreamt that they should not return to Herod. Instead and at great risk to themselves, they went home to their native country-ignoring Herod’s instructions. What would have happened if they’d dismissed their dreams or if out of fear of Herod, told Herod of Jesus’ location? Our chance at eternal salvation was born that night and the protection of this precious child depended upon these few men and their openness to embrace the unexpected, listen to their dreams and courageously follow God. In this new year, let us all have open ears and eyes, receptive minds and hearts to still small voices and with God’s help, have the courage to act fearlessly.

Pam Fahrner is an assistant priest in the Episcopal Church in Garrett County, serving at St. John's, Deer Park.